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20 gallon filter?

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any suggestions on a 20 gallon filter? got a great deal on it on craigslist but i dont like the filter that the guy had with it. been a while since i have shopped filters and i am sure there are some new stuff out there? would love to hear likes dislikes etc.
right now i have sand substrate and just a few decorations. pretty empty. plan on driftwood and some cave dwellings for cichlids

My view is that the filter should be geared to the fish, thinking of flow as well as actual filtration, and if live plants are to be included.

You mention cichlids; in a 20g I would assume either shellies (hard water) or perhaps dwarf from South America (soft water). Neither need strong flow, so a simple sponge filter is sufficient. I would not do a HOB since in such a small tank the flow will be too much. An internal filter like the Fluval U1 is another option.

Byron.

Byron Hosking, BMus, MA
Vancouver, BC, Canada

Something we all need to remember: The fish you've acquired was quite happy not being owned by you, minding its own business. If you’re going to take it under your wing then you’re responsible for it. Every aspect of its life is under your control, from water quality and temperature to swimming space. [Nathan Hill in PFK]

An aquaclear 50 would be sufficient, you can adjust the output as needed and the position in the tank with relation to the hard scape. 20 gallons is kind of small but if you choose to do South American dwarf cichlids I highly recommend you getting a confirmed male/female pair and provide adequate foliage.

If you take your time to do the research FIRST, you can successfully set-up and keep ANY type of aquarium with ease."Not using a quarantine tank is like playing Russian roulette. Nobody wins the game, some people just get to play longer than others." - Anthony CalfoFishless CycleCycling with FishMarine Aquarium Info [URL="http://saltwater.aquaticcommunity.com/"]

For a 20G I would get a small external canister filter, e.g. Eheim Classic 2211. They are solid performers and very low maintenance. That's what I would get anyway. If you're in the US you may well opt for a HOB though - they don't really do those over here.

thanks for the ideas. i am in the US, and i have used the Aqua clear before and liked them. i have looked at the fluval U "type" inside system. read some poor reviews though. i also dont have unlimited funds. I am thinking a male and female pair of Kribensis cichlids. I see those around my town in LFS, small town, only one store LOL. and they are pretty and active as well.